Suicide prevention service could close by Christmas, says Ward

Sinn Féin spokesperson for mental health Mark Ward TD has called on mental health minister Mary Butler to “make good” on her promises to a vital suicide prevention service.

Ward is raising awareness about Save Our Sons and Daughters, SOSAD, who may have to close their vital service by Christmas if funding is not provided.

He said that he met with members of the organisation in October along with fellow Sinn Féin coleagues.

The organisation has been in operation since 2007, which works to raise awareness and help prevent suicide in Ireland.

“SOSAD works tirelessly in communities to help those in need, support them and let them know they are not alone on their journey. SOSAD also offer support and services for people who are struggling with suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, bereavement, stress and anxiety.”

“SOSAD has seven offices, based in Cavan, Louth, Meath, Monaghan and Laois. Up to October the organisation had seen 1,600 individual clients and delivered 18,000 counselling sessions,” he noted.

“I was informed that SOSAD would have to close their doors this year, due to funding issues, with only a couple of months left in the year. It does not receive any statutory funding.”

“The representatives said that they contacted the Minister of State’s office a couple of times and told to contact the HSE. That is where the barrier seems to be. When they go to the HSE, the HSE simply does not want to know.”

Ward said he raised the issue in the Dáil and secured a commitment from Minister Butler to meet with the group, but to Ward’s knowledge, the meeting has not taken place.

“SOSAD have been in contact with me again out of desperation and I have written to the Minister and have asked that treat this with the urgency that it deserves.”

“This is a vital service and cannot be closed due to a lack of urgency.”